I’ve always believed that trust can be built in small moments—through brief but genuine interactions that leave a lasting impression. Over the years, I’ve noticed that certain phrases can strengthen relationships almost instantly.
When I first started my own business, I was often so laser-focused on daily tasks that I’d gloss over the importance of emotional connections with coworkers or clients. But as time went on, I realized how vital it was to weave empathy and open communication into everything I do.
I’m sharing these nine go-to phrases because, in my own experience, they’ve helped set a tone of understanding and respect. Whether I’m talking with a colleague, a family member, or a friend, these words have a way of dissolving tension and nurturing cooperation.
I’ve learned that when you’re genuinely interested in how someone feels—and you show it—trust can grow at remarkable speed. Here are nine examples I lean on whenever I want to encourage honest, meaningful dialogue.
1. “I appreciate your perspective.”
I can’t count the number of times acknowledging someone’s viewpoint has saved me from a full-blown conflict.
“I appreciate your perspective” is a simple statement that acknowledges the other person has a valid point of view—even if it’s drastically different from my own. It acts like a small bridge, making the other person feel seen and heard.
I remember a tense conversation with a coworker during my early consulting days. They wanted to go in a different direction on a project, but I was initially stubborn. Taking a step back and telling them, “I appreciate your perspective” changed the atmosphere. It allowed us to move forward without either of us feeling dismissed.
According to a Psychology Today article I once read, people are far more open to compromise when they believe their thoughts are taken seriously. When we do this, we show that we value the other person’s input—and that’s exactly what fosters trust.
2. “Could you help me understand?”
When I first started leading a small team, I noticed the most constructive discussions began when I asked questions rather than jumping in with statements.
“Could you help me understand?” invites the other person to share more details about their reasoning or feelings. It conveys genuine curiosity and a willingness to learn, which can prevent misunderstandings from snowballing.
I’ve seen how powerful this phrase can be in heated debates. Instead of assuming I know where the other person is coming from, I use those few words to gather context. Often, I discover there’s more to their position than I initially realized.
People with strong emotional intelligence know that trust thrives in spaces where everyone feels comfortable expressing themselves. Asking for help in understanding ensures you’re not dominating the conversation or putting someone on the spot; you’re offering a safe place for them to elaborate.
3. “That must have been difficult for you.”
During a challenging period in my life, I confided in a colleague about a personal issue. I was initially hesitant, because I worried I’d come off as unprofessional.
Instead of simply nodding along, she said, “That must have been difficult for you.” I remember feeling deeply acknowledged. It’s a powerful phrase because it explicitly recognizes the emotional weight someone might be carrying.
Empathy, as many psychologists emphasize, is a cornerstone of emotional intelligence. It shows you’re trying to step into another person’s shoes, if only briefly. “That must have been difficult for you” goes beyond the basic “I’m sorry you feel that way.” It implies you’re taking a moment to imagine their struggle.
Research published in Verywell Mind highlights how acknowledging another person’s hardships can make them feel valued, helping to strengthen trust and rapport.
4. “I’m here to support you.”
Whenever I say this phrase—whether it’s to a friend who’s launching a new venture or a family member dealing with a tough situation—I make sure my actions follow through. Telling someone “I’m here to support you” is a verbal promise. It lets them know you’re available in a meaningful way.
However, it’s crucial that it’s not just lip service. If I offer my support, I also need to back it up with genuine willingness to assist, listen, or simply show up.
In my early business days, I often felt isolated tackling everything on my own. It was a game-changer whenever a colleague or mentor said they’d be there if I needed anything. That sense of camaraderie really eased the pressure.
Sometimes, trust is built from small gestures—like being available for a quick brainstorming session or stepping in for a colleague who needs an extra hand. This phrase alone can offer relief and solidify connections.
5. “Let’s explore a solution together.”
During tough interactions, people sometimes shut down because they assume they’re on opposite sides of a problem. Inviting someone to work collaboratively can diffuse tension and create unity. “Let’s explore a solution together” shows that you’re not interested in a standoff—you’re interested in teamwork.
I’ve used this phrase with my kids, especially when sibling squabbles happen. The difference it makes when I shift the focus to “we” instead of “you” is incredible.
It’s the same in professional settings. When I consult with startups, conflicts often arise about resource allocation or project direction. Rather than insisting on a single “right” way, I encourage teams to explore solutions jointly.
This approach acknowledges that other people’s input is valuable. Trust grows because nobody feels cornered into compliance; everyone feels they have a voice in the outcome.
6. “I understand how you feel.”
This one might sound like a cliché, but I’ve seen it work wonders—provided it’s said genuinely. “I understand how you feel” shouldn’t be tossed around casually if you’re not truly trying to relate to the other person’s emotions.
As a mother of two, I find that offering this sense of understanding helps me build trust with my kids, especially when they’re upset. But it also translates seamlessly into adult relationships.
Whether I’m talking with a colleague about a missed deadline or listening to a friend’s frustrations about life’s curveballs, taking a moment to acknowledge their feelings can open up deeper dialogue. People want to feel that they’re not alone in their struggles.
According to a piece I once read on Choosing Therapy, empathy fosters a sense of security and belonging. When someone knows you’re making an effort to understand them, they can relax and trust becomes a natural by-product.
7. “I own that mistake.”
Early in my career, the idea of admitting an error made me break out in a cold sweat. I worried it would diminish people’s confidence in me. Over time, I realized that the opposite is true. Owning up to mistakes—even small ones—can actually strengthen people’s respect and trust in you.
When I say, “I own that mistake,” I’m removing any defensiveness from the conversation. Instead of blaming others or offering lame excuses, I’m showing accountability.
I try to phrase it simply and then address how I plan to fix or learn from the mistake. This approach also sets a tone that it’s safe for others to be honest when they make errors.
In my experience, teams that normalize mistakes as part of the learning process often have higher morale and stronger interpersonal trust. It’s a reminder that being human is okay, and collectively, we can tackle slip-ups more effectively.
8. “I’m grateful for your contribution.”
Gratitude is a powerful tool for building trust, yet it’s so often overlooked. Back when I was juggling multiple projects for my consulting agency, I had one team member who always quietly exceeded expectations—no fanfare, just pure dedication.
One day, I told them, “I’m grateful for your contribution.” The look on their face said it all: they felt recognized and validated.
When people realize you see and value their efforts, they feel more connected and invested in the shared goal. In personal relationships, an authentic “I’m grateful for you” can also strengthen bonds. Gratitude is a double win: it makes the other person feel appreciated, and it reminds you to notice the positive traits and actions around you.
Trust, in my view, is nurtured when both parties understand they’re valued, and this phrase is a direct invitation to that understanding.
9. “Tell me more about that.”
I’ve found that trust often begins with giving someone space to speak. “Tell me more about that” does exactly that. It’s an invitation for the other person to open up further, and it shows I’m genuinely listening. Sometimes people need a little nudge to share thoughts they’ve been holding back.
This phrase is particularly helpful during brainstorming sessions or conflict resolutions where people might feel uneasy about revealing their real opinions. By encouraging them to elaborate, you learn more, and they feel comfortable being honest.
Authentic communication is so vital to building trust. In my own experience, some of the best ideas come from individuals who just needed the prompt to speak more freely. Trust is fueled by openness, and this phrase is a friendly green light for others to dig deeper.
Wrapping up
I’ve learned that the small details in our daily interactions can make a world of difference when it comes to trust. By using phrases that validate, encourage, and empathize, we’re creating a culture where honesty and compassion can flourish.
Each of these nine expressions can be incredibly effective in both personal and professional settings, and they don’t require monumental effort—just genuine intention.
Moving forward, my challenge to you is to pay attention to your conversations. Notice where you could weave in a little more empathy or ask a few more open-ended questions. When you do, you’ll likely see people relax, open up, and feel more connected.
These brief statements may seem simple, but the emotional impact they carry is profound. And as I’ve discovered over the years, sincere communication is one of the greatest catalysts for lasting, meaningful trust.
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